Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Crocker's Hole From "Slain By The Doones"   By: (1825-1900)

Book cover

Crocker's Hole, authored by Richard D. Blackmore, is a captivating and exhilarating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the treacherous landscape of Exmoor. Set in the 17th century, this tale of love, betrayal, and revenge will undoubtedly leave readers on the edge of their seats.

The story centers around the character of Crocker, a brave and rugged protagonist who finds himself entangled in a web of deceit after witnessing a crime committed by the notorious band of outlaws known as the Doones. As Crocker embarks on a mission to avenge his loved ones and seek justice, he must navigate the rugged terrain of Exmoor, a place where danger lurks at every corner.

One of the most commendable aspects of Blackmore's writing is his meticulous attention to detail. Through vivid descriptions, he paints a vivid and realistic image of Exmoor, fully immersing readers in the story's atmospheric setting. From the rolling hills to the dense forests, every inch of the land comes to life, creating a sense of foreboding that lingers throughout the narrative.

Additionally, the characters in Crocker's Hole are well-developed and multidimensional. Crocker himself is a complex and relatable character, driven by his desire for justice but also plagued by his own personal demons. As he delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the Doones, his internal struggles add depth to his journey, leading readers to empathize with his plight.

The plot of the novel is gripping and fast-paced, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged until the very end. Blackmore skillfully weaves together elements of romance, adventure, and suspense to create a truly compelling story. Furthermore, the dialogue is written with the authentic vernacular of the time, adding to the overall authenticity and enhancing the reading experience.

While Crocker's Hole is undeniably a thrilling novel, it does have some shortcomings. At times, the pacing of the narrative can feel uneven, with certain scenes dragging on while others rush by too quickly. Additionally, the sheer number of characters introduced throughout the story may be overwhelming for some readers, making it challenging to keep track of each individual's significance to the plot.

In conclusion, Crocker's Hole is a captivating historical fiction novel that transports readers to the rugged landscapes of Exmoor. Richard D. Blackmore's impeccable descriptions, compelling characters, and intricate plot will undoubtedly keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Despite its occasional pacing issues and the complexity of its extensive cast, this novel is a must-read for fans of adventure, romance, and thrilling tales set in a bygone era.

First Page:

CROCKER'S HOLE

By R. D. Blackmore

From "SLAIN BY THE DOONES" by R. D. Blackmore Copyright: Dodd, Mead And Company, 1895

CHAPTER I.

The Culm, which rises in Somersetshire, and hastening into a fairer land (as the border waters wisely do) falls into the Exe near Killerton, formerly was a lovely trout stream, such as perverts the Devonshire angler from due respect toward Father Thames and the other canals round London. In the Devonshire valleys it is sweet to see how soon a spring becomes a rill, and a rill runs on into a rivulet, and a rivulet swells into a brook; and before one has time to say, "What are you at?" before the first tree it ever spoke to is a dummy, or the first hill it ever ran down has turned blue, here we have all the airs and graces, demands and assertions of a full grown river.

But what is the test of a river? Who shall say? "The power to drown a man," replies the river darkly. But rudeness is not argument. Rather shall we say that the power to work a good undershot wheel, without being dammed up all night in a pond, and leaving a tidy back stream to spare at the bottom of the orchard, is a fair certificate of riverhood. If so, many Devonshire streams attain that rank within five miles of their spring; aye, and rapidly add to it. At every turn they gather aid, from ash clad dingle and aldered meadow, mossy rock and ferny wall, hedge trough roofed with bramble netting, where the baby water lurks, and lanes that coming down to ford bring suicidal tribute... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books